Dani Lins guides SESI to historic Brazilian Cup title

London Olympic champion Dani Lins led SESI Volei Bauru to a historic moment on Monday as the club secured their first national title with a victory in the Brazilian Cup in Blumenau.

Under the guidance of the experienced 37-year-old setter, SESI upset national champions Itambe Minas in straight sets (25-18, 27-25, 25-20) and improved their record in the tournament after taking bronze in the last three seasons.

SESI had a tough road to the title. Before topping the reigning Superliga champions in the final, they eliminated 12-time national champions SESC Flamengo in the quarterfinals and reigning South American champions Dentil Praia Club in the semifinals.

“Only we know how hard we fought to get a result like this,” Dani said. “We kept working hard and doing our best and it’s great that we got the result of that in such an important tournament. We have to celebrate this moment but also to keep in mind that we still have a long season ahead of us and we want to do better in the Superliga.”

American opposite Nia Reed led SESI’s offence with 18 points, followed by outside hitter Suelle Oliveira with ten. Middle blocker Mayany Souza had eight points, including five in blocks. Minas’ top scorers were outside hitter Pri Daroit with 15 points and American opposite Danielle Cuttino with 13.

“This was a huge step forward for our programme,” SESI’s coach Roberley ‘Rubinho’ Leonaldo reflected. “It’s our first national title and that’s a big accomplishment as there’s a lot of competition in women’s volleyball in Brazil. We were ready and performed really well. We still have a long way to go in the Superliga, but we’re headed in the right direction.”

SESI will be back on the court on Friday in a Superliga encounter with Barueri Volleyball Club.